Healthy Eating for Kids: Learn About Nutrients!

What is Healthy Eating?

Eating is how we get the nutrients we need to survive and stay energized. To grow strong and stay healthy, we need to eat a variety of foods with the right balance of nutrients. Healthy eating is complete (includes all nutrients) and balanced (eating the right amount of each nutrient).

Food Nutrients

Food contains six main types of nutrients:

1. Carbohydrates (also called glucides)
2. Fats (also called lipids)
3. Proteins
4. Water
5. Vitamins
6. Mineral salts

Let’s learn more about each nutrient!

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates give our bodies energy to play and move. Foods like bread, rice, and pasta are healthy sources of carbs. However, not all carbs are healthy! Sweets like candy and pastries should be eaten in moderation. Fruits are a healthy source of carbohydrates, and they also provide vitamins!

Fats

Fats provide energy and help our bodies absorb vitamins. They are important, but we need to eat the right kinds. Healthy fats come from foods like nuts, avocados, and olive oil. Be careful not to eat too much high-fat foods like butter and meat, as they can harm your health.

Proteins

Proteins build and repair our body’s tissues, like muscles and bones. They also help transport vitamins and boost our immune system. You can get proteins from animal sources like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, or from vegetable sources like beans and lentils. A balanced diet includes both types of proteins.

Vitamins and Mineral Salts

Vitamins and minerals help our bodies stay healthy and function properly. Foods like fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins. For example, oranges and bananas provide vitamins, while spinach and carrots are full of minerals. To stay healthy, eat at least five portions of fruits and vegetables each day!

Water

Water is essential for staying hydrated and helps our body work properly. Most of our body is made of water, so it’s important to drink water throughout the day, especially when exercising or when it’s hot outside.

Healthy Eating Tips

To maintain a healthy diet, follow these simple tips:

1. Eat a variety of foods to get all the nutrients your body needs.
2. Have four meals a day with the right portion sizes.
3. Drink water frequently to stay hydrated.
4. Exercise regularly to stay strong and use the energy from the food you eat.

Following these tips can help you prevent diseases like obesity and diabetes, and keep you healthy and strong. Enjoy your meals!